Motion
This Council notes:
· That due to issues with the heating system, Roath Library has been temporarily closed since November 2014;
· That since then, due to a leak in the roof the building has deteriorated further;
· That Roath Library serves one of the most deprived areas of Cardiff, with the four nearest Lower Super Output Areas being in the bottom quartile of the most deprived areas in Cardiff;
· That over 1,100 people have signed petitions calling on Cardiff Council to repair and reopen Roath Library;
· That the Cabinet is seeking to retain the delivery of library services from Roath Library through a Community Asset Transfer solution rather than fund the necessary repairs itself;
This Council further notes:
· That according to the Cabinet report of 16th July 2015, internal repairs and damage are covered by insurance;
· The availability of a significant amount of S106 money from developments in the Adamsdown ward;
· The resolution of Council on 26th February 2015 that ensured continued funding for branch libraries unless alternative delivery arrangements could be found;
This Council therefore:
· Reaffirms its position that branch library services continue to be funded until the end of the Council term unless, and/or until alternative delivery arrangements are operational.
· Subject to agreement with Local Members, calls on the Cabinet to explore the use of S106 money as a basis for carrying out the necessary repairs to ensure that Roath Library re-opens as a vital community asset without further delay.
Proposed by: Councillor Nigel Howells
Seconded by: Councillor Joseph Carter